University Headquarters (HQ) is an industry-leading, independent educational organization that provides independent college rankings using a proprietary formula to create first class unbiased rankings. The team at University HQ strives to provide accurate and trustworthy rankings that highlights the best programs for public administration in New Hampshire.
Get Matched With Public Administration Programs
What is Public Administration Manager?
Pursuing a public administration degree, whether online or on-campus, in New Hampshire opens doors to a variety of career paths in the public sector. Academic institutions offer comprehensive programs designed to equip you with practical skills and a solid theoretical foundation. These programs are crafted to meet the needs of students aiming to become publicly minded professionals, with courses such as 'Foundations and Theories of Public Administration'.
The state’s academic landscape includes online options that are flexible and accommodate working individuals. Colleges and universities in NH offer degrees in public administration that are suited for any student looking to make a tangible difference in their communities, the government sector, or non-profit organizations. The online format allows for a broad reach, catering to a network that spans hundreds of thousands of alumni, and providing significant networking opportunities that can be pivotal in your professional journey.
Read MoreKey Takeaways:
- Earning a degree in public administration prepares you for various public sector and nonprofit roles.
- Flexible online programs cater to working professionals and provide a network of alumni.
- Financial aid options can make pursuing a public administration program even more accessible.
Compare Popular Online Public Administration Programs
Overview of Public Administration Programs
Public administration programs in New Hampshire provide a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills designed to prepare you for effective leadership within the public sector. Whether you're a working professional or a recent graduate, these programs are structured to enhance your understanding and performance in public administration roles.
Find Your Online Public Administration Schools
Public Administration Degree Curriculum
Your public administration degree should expose you to a comprehensive curriculum that covers the core concepts and practices necessary for public sector management.
The coursework typically involves the following:
- Leadership and Ethics: This area focuses on the principles of ethical leadership and decision-making in the public service context.
- Program Evaluation: Learn to assess the effectiveness of public programs to ensure they meet their intended goals and provide public value.
- Budgeting and Financial Management: Understand the intricacies of public sector budgeting and fiscal management to ensure resources are used effectively.
- Policy Analysis: You will gain the skills to analyze and interpret public policy, examining how it impacts society and how to implement changes.
- Personnel Management and Collective Bargaining: Acquire knowledge about human resource management including labor relations and negotiation in the public sphere.
For undergraduate programs, the curriculum will also extend to foundational topics that are critical to the understanding of public administration.
This includes:
- Public Policy: A thorough analysis of how policy is created and its impact on public administration.
- Public Organizations: Insight into the structure and function of public organizations and their role in society.
- Administrative Law and Governance: An understanding of the legal frameworks that guide public administrative actions.
Courses may be delivered online, offering you flexibility to balance your studies with personal and professional commitments. Upon graduation, you will have developed a skillset that's vital for driving effective change and leadership within the public domain.
Online Educational Pathways for a Public Administration Degree in New Hampshire
New Hampshire offers a spectrum of public administration degree programs that cater to different stages of your educational and professional journey. These programs range from introductory courses to advanced studies and are designed to be flexible to fit your schedule.
Online Associate Degree in Public Administration (AS)
You can lay the groundwork for your career in public service with an associate degree in public administration. Though specifics may vary, these programs generally span two years and equip you with foundational knowledge in government operations, policymaking, and public affairs.
Online Bachelor’s Degree in Public Administration (BS)
If you're aiming for in-depth knowledge in this field, a bachelor’s degree in public administration provides a comprehensive understanding of public sector management, leadership, and policy. Typically a four-year commitment, these undergraduate degrees can prime you for various roles in public administration and are steppingstones to graduate education.
-
Key Areas Covered:
- Public policy
- Leadership
- Program Evaluation
Online Master’s Degree in Public Administration (MS)
You can elevate your professional capabilities with a master’s degree in public administration (MPA). Programs allow you to specialize in areas like strategic management, program evaluation, and budgeting, and many of these programs can be completed within a 12 to 24-month period.
Online PhD in Public Administration (PhD)
For those looking to lead the field through research, analysis, or academia, a PhD in Public Administration is the pinnacle of your education. These highly specialized programs focus on contributing original research to the study of public administration. It can take years to finish one of these programs, but they are often offered through flexible learning as they are designed for busy working professionals.
LEARN MORE ABOUT BUSINESS RESOURCES AND SCHOLARSHIPS HOW TO PAY FOR COLLEGE GUIDE
Online Public Administration Certifications
Boost your qualifications with public administration certifications. Certifications can offer you the opportunity to deepen your expertise in a specific area of public administration without committing to a full degree program.
-
Benefits of Certifications:
- Specialized knowledge
- Professional development
- Career advancement opportunities
Navigating the Public Administration Degree Field
When you're exploring the field of public administration, your primary goal is to find programs that align with your educational and professional aspirations. New Hampshire offers several opportunities to obtain a bachelor's degree or associate degree in public administration, both through traditional classroom experiences and online. Here's what you need to consider.
Find Online Public Administration Schools
Public Administration Course Requirements
Your public administration degree will encompass a range of subjects designed to equip you with the necessary skills for effective policy analysis, program evaluation, and financial management within public organizations. You'll encounter core courses like Organizational Theory, Public Budgeting and Finance, and Policy Analysis.
Courses focusing on public service are integral to your degree, covering topics such as Ethical Leadership, Community Engagement, and Nonprofit Management. These courses prepare you to serve effectively and ethically in public administration roles. The specialized courses within a public administration curriculum are crafted to advance your understanding of strategic governance, human resource management, and administrative law.
Key Factors in Selecting a Degree
- Accreditation: Ensure the institution has proper accreditation, which will be crucial for future employment and educational prospects.
- Curriculum: Look for a comprehensive program that covers public administration, leadership, and public policy.
- Flexibility: Online programs should offer the convenience of studying from anywhere, allowing you to balance work, life, and education.
Benefits of Online Learning
- Access: Course materials are often accessible 24/7, offering a flexible schedule.
- Interaction: Online degrees often include interactive components with peers and faculty, enhancing your learning experience.
To start, carefully review the offerings from New Hampshire’s institutions. Programs like the Master of Public Administration (MPA) caters to those seeking advanced roles. On the other hand, undergraduate options provide a solid foundation for public sector careers. Remember, the right degree can equip you with the skills needed for effective public service and leadership. Your education will be a steppingstone into a career of meaningful impact in public administration.
Potential Career Options and Salaries for Public Administration Graduates
Pursuing a degree in public administration can open doors to diverse roles within government and non-governmental nonprofit organizations, such as community service managers. In New Hampshire, the combination of your government administration degree and practical experience positions you well for competitive salaries and critical roles in shaping public policy and management.
Budget Analyst
Job Description: As a budget analyst, you're essential in helping organizations manage their finances effectively. You are tasked with reviewing budget proposals and reports and monitoring spending to ensure alignment with financial planning. In New Hampshire, the expertise you bring as a budget analyst may be crucial to maintaining fiscal responsibility within government agencies.
Requirements:
- Bachelor's degree, Growth Potential 3% (As fast as average)
- Examine budget estimates for completeness, accuracy, and conformance with procedures and regulations
- Work with program and project managers to develop the organization’s budget
- Review managers’ budget proposals and funding requests for completeness, accuracy, and compliance with laws and other regulations
- Combine program and department budgets into a consolidated organizational budget
Median Salary: $90,880
learn morePublic Policy Analyst
Job Description: In the role of public policy analyst, your analytical skills afford you the opportunity to evaluate the efficacy of public policies and their impact on the community. You're responsible for researching complex issues, interpreting data, and making recommendations to improve public services. Your insights have a direct effect on policymaking within the state of New Hampshire.
Requirements:
- Master's degree, Growth Potential 7% (Faster than average)
- Research political subjects, such as the U.S. political system and foreign relations
- Collect and analyze data from sources such as public opinion surveys
- Evaluate the effects of policies and laws on government, businesses, and people
- Monitor current events, policy decisions, and other related issues
Median Salary: $132,350
City Manager
Job Description: City managers are at the helm of local government, ensuring all operations work towards enhancing the community's quality of life. With a public administration degree, you're equipped to oversee government activities, implement city council policies, and collaborate with community stakeholders in cities throughout New Hampshire.
Requirements:
- Bachelor's degree, 5 years or more work experience
- Establish and carry out departmental or organizational goals, policies, and procedures
- Recommend programs and services by studying the changing needs of the city; identifying and anticipating community service trends; evaluating and offering options to the board of managers.
- Provide city services by establishing and improving a functional structure; delegating authority
- Maintain city staff by recruiting, selecting, orienting, and training employees
Median Salary: $103,840
Chief Operating Officer
Job Description: As a chief operating officer in a public service capacity, you bring leadership and strategic vision to public agencies or government departments. Your role entails supervision of daily operations, development of strategies to optimize operations, and ensuring that goals are met efficiently. In such a leadership position, you contribute to the public sector's efficacy across New Hampshire.
Requirements:
- Master's degree
- Determine and formulate policies and provide overall direction of companies or private and public sector organizations within guidelines set up by a board of directors or similar governing body
- Plan and develop an organization's operational objectives and initiatives
- Develop strategies and oversees the execution of plans to attain short- and long-term financial and mission-critical operational goals
- Develop operating budgets
Median Salary: $258,900
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the requirements for obtaining a public administration degree?
To obtain a public administration degree, you usually need to have completed a high school diploma or its equivalent for undergraduate programs. Graduate programs, such as a Master of Public Administration (MPA), typically require a bachelor's degree and may prefer applicants with professional work experience.
How much does it typically cost to pursue a public administration degree?
The cost to pursue a public administration degree varies widely depending on whether you choose a public or private institution and whether you qualify for in-state tuition.
Are there any institutions in New Hampshire that offer a public administration degree online?
Yes, there are several New Hampshire colleges and universities that offer online public administration programs, which provide flexible learning environment for professionals seeking to advance their careers in public and nonprofit management.
How does an online Master's Degree in Public Administration compare to an in-person program?
An online master's degree in public administration typically offers greater flexibility and may be more suited to working professionals. It usually covers the same curriculum as an in-person program, with opportunities for networking and practical application of learned skills.